Softball: Unbeaten Black Sox make final four for world series

EAST LONDON - New Zealand have qualified for the top-four playoffs at the men's softball world series in South Africa with one section game remaining.

The Black Sox maintained their unbeaten record by beating Mexico 7-0 in their sixth section match yesterday. The defending champions have now scored 56 runs, including 10 homers, and conceded none.

Black Sox captain and first baseman Mark Sorenson hit his first home run of the tournament yesterday.

Coach Don Tricker said he was happy that the first of his side's "simple goals" had been achieved.

"We've finished in the top two in our section and can finish no worse than second."

In section B, Canada's unbeaten run ended with a 2-3 loss to Australia.

However, Australia's top-four hopes later ended with a 0-3 loss to Botswana.

- NZPA